Introduction to the History of Western Art (AH2124.01)

Carol Stakenas

This survey course will provide an introductory exploration of the cultural, social, and political values of Western Europe and the Americas by tracing the development of visual culture.

Our investigation will focus on aesthetics as well as patronage, art theory, and criticism in various historical periods – from Prehistoric Art through the Nineteenth Century. The course will also consider cultural and artistic exchanges between societies of Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Africa.

Class time will be devoted to lectures, screenings, discussions of weekly readings, as well as team-based and individual presentations.